HC Deb 25 November 1948 vol 458 cc1391-2
23. Mr. Erroll

asked the Minister of Fuel and Power what progress is being made in relaxing the restrictions on the installation of fuel oil-burning equipment; and when will outstanding requests for permission have been cleared up.

Mr. Gaitskell

In reply to a Question by the hon. Member on 6th May of this year, I explained that in a limited number of cases whose economic merits were exceptional, conversion to oil could be completed. Under this arrangement schemes of conversion have in fact been approved authorising consumption of oil at an annual rate of 340,000 tons. As regards the latter part of the Question, I have nothing to add to the statement I made in May.

Mr. Erroll

Can the Minister state when he expects it will be possible to install oil-burning equipment without the necessity of obtaining permission?

Mr. Gaitskell

We have this matter under continuous review. I cannot tie myself down to a particular date at the moment.